Expat Advice: Culture Shock in Bangkok, Thailand
What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?
Bangkok
Did you receive any cross-cultural training for your move abroad? If yes, was it before or after the move?
No

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SJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
If they speak another language in your new country, do you speak the language? If yes, did you learn the language before you moved or while abroad? If no, are you planning to learn the language?
Learned after I got here
Were you worried or concerned about culture shock before you moved abroad?
No
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How significant was the culture shock you experienced when you moved abroad?
I didn't experience any
Expats often talk about going through the "stages of culture shock." Examples include the honeymoon phase, the irritation-to-anger stage, the rejection of the culture stage, and the cultural adjustment phase. Do you feel like you went through these or any other stages as you settled into the new culture?
No
What, if any, were some of the changes you noticed in yourself that might have been caused by culture shock? These might include things such as anger, depression, anxiety, increased eating or drinking, frustration, homesickness, etc.
None of the above
What are some things you appreciate most about the new culture?
Few busybodies, do-gooders and bleeding hearts interfering in the lives of other people. Respect for elders.
What are the most challenging aspects of the new culture?
I didn't find anything particularly challenging, but I made up my mind that I would study the culture, behavioral characteristics to try and understand the differences, and there are many.
Did you "commit" any embarrassing or humorous cultural blunders? If you did and you'd like to share them, please do tell!
I probably inadvertently butchered the language, but the Thai were too polite to criticize.
Do you have any advice or thoughts about culture shock you would like to share?
Learn the do's and don'ts and review them periodically. Don't interfere in the personal lives of the hosts unless specifically request to help.
Additional Information:
- Expat Guide to Bangkok
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Bangkok
- Fun Classes for Expats Living in Bangkok
- Best Bookstores and Libraries in Bangkok
- Public Transportation in Bangkok
- Best Markets in Bangkok
- Retire in Bangkok Guide
- 7 Tips for Living in Bangkok
- Pros & Cons of Living in Bangkok
- Tips for Expats Driving in Bangkok
- Cost of Living in Bangkok
- Health Care in Bangkok
- Discovering the Best of Bangkok
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Thailand
- Best Places to Live in Thailand
- Real Estate in Thailand
- Pros & Cons of Living in Thailand
- Thailand vs. The Philippines
- Pros and Cons of Living in Thailand 2025
- 2025 Guide to Moving to Thailand